Project Engineer

Nestlé; Wahgunyah; On-site; AUD 110,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

Nestlé Wahgunyah Factory is seeking a Project Engineer to own major capital investment projects, ensuring delivery on safety, quality, cost and timelines.

Reporting to Engineering Manager, you will collaborate with operations, engineering, quality and external contractors to drive performance and safe production. This is a 2-year fixed-term contract with exposure to Hygienic Design, GMP, CIP and Nestlé standards.

Qualifications

• Requires degree in engineering and 5+ years leading capital projects.
• Strong project management, budgeting, risk management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience in food manufacturing or Hygienic Design, GMP, CIP is advantageous.

Responsibilities

• Manage capital projects from concept through to implementation and handover.
• Develop project charters and ensure objectives are achieved across the lifecycle.
• Deliver projects on time, within budget, and to high quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with Nestlé engineering standards, local regulations, and safety requirements.
• Lead cross-functional project teams and coordinate stakeholders.

Skills

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Contractor management

Cross-functional leadership

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Mechanical/Manufacturing/Chemical/Mechatronics Engineering

Job description

Job Description

We're looking for an experienced and driven Project Engineer to join our Engineering team at our iconic Wahgunyah Factory, home to Nestlé Uncle Tobys Snacks and Cereals on a 2 year fixed term contract.

As our Project Engineer, you'll take ownership of major capital investment projects across the site, ensuring successful delivery against safety, quality, cost, and timeline objectives.

Reporting to the Engineering Manager, you'll work closely with stakeholders across operations, engineering, quality, safety, and external contractors to deliver projects that drive business performance and operational excellence.

A Day in the life...

• Manage capital projects from concept development through to implementation and handover.
• Develop project charters and ensure project objectives are achieved throughout the lifecycle.
• Deliver projects on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.
• Ensure compliance with Nestlé engineering standards, local regulations, and safety requirements.
• Promote safe work practices and foster a culture of safety excellence across project teams.
• Ensure Hygienic Design, GMP, CIP, and food manufacturing standards are integrated into project execution.
• Lead and coordinate cross-functional project teams.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage project communications, governance, and steering committee engagement.
• Partner with operations and start-up teams to ensure smooth project commissioning and transition into production.
• Identify and manage project risks, opportunities, and continuous improvement initiatives.

You will Bring:

• Degree qualifications in Mechanical, Manufacturing, Chemical, Mechatronics Engineering, or a related discipline.
• 5+ years' engineering experience, including leading capital projects up to $10M.
• Strong project management capability, including planning, budgeting, risk management, and stakeholder engagement
• Experience across engineering design, installation, commissioning, and project execution.
• Food manufacturing experience (highly regarded)
• Knowledge of Hygienic Design, CIP systems, GMP, and manufacturing best practices.
• Exceptional communication and influencing skills with the ability to engage teams at all levels.
• Demonstrated success leading contractors, trades, and large-scale installations while maintaining high safety and quality standards.
• Strong self-management and accountability, with a focus on delivering results.

Candidates who have previously applied and been assessed for this position will already be under consideration and do not need to submit a new application.

You will have the chance to work with an outstanding and highly engaged team, build and grow your career with an inclusive, global FMCG leader.

In addition, we offer:

• Varied career experiences and personalised development support
• Diversity and Inclusion initiatives and program
• Competitive remuneration package
• Employee Assistance Program

Our Story

Nestlé enjoys a reputation as one of the world's largest FMCG companies and a leader in nutrition, health and wellness. Our inclusive and high-performance culture is a testament to the great training, development, rewards and recognition we extend to every member of our 5000-strong Oceania workforce.